Page 68 - The Cormorant 2018

PAGE 66
The Purple Ball Cdr Sean Trevethan
FOR THIS YEAR’S PURPLE Ball, the Joint Services Command and Staff College was transformed into to a Circus Wonderland that
astonished guests from all corners of the Shrivenham Station. The Purple Ball has a reputation for being one of the most spectacular
Balls in Defence and this year certainly did not disappoint. There was something for everyone, from fair grounds to casinos and daring circus acts which took the breath away from all those watching. All the staff from the Station that were
involved in the event delivered a fantastic service on the night and the carnival style ‘street food’ was a real hit.
The entertainment was sublime, largely due to the efforts of ACSC 21’s Cdr Laurence Mallinson, who worked tirelessly from November to deliver the ‘spectacular’ element of the Ball. Every room had something going on which generated an electric atmosphere. Outside there was much to see including a pyrotechnic display which made the onlookers breathless with excitement but also ready to dial 999 just in case it went wrong. Fortunately, it did not and the risk assessment held. As the night wore on many of the acts were enjoying interacting
“
with the crowd so much that they simply kept playing. On the Main Stage, Knife Fight in a Phone Box were amazing, they certainly expanded their fan-base from that of the plethora of Fighter groupies from ACSC 21. Even the headline band – Jam Sandwich commented on their talent, tautness and charisma on stage. It is safe to say that the ‘Knife Fighters’ graduated to rock star level that evening! With the crowd absolutely buzzing, Jam Sandwich, the headline band, brought it home.
All in all, the Purple Ball was a fantastic way to round off a fantastic year.
. It is safe to
say that the ‘Knife Fighters’
graduated to rock star level that evening! ◆◆◆